The Art of Knowing Your Worth

Writer's Thoughts

The idea that someone can put a number on your time and prowess is an insane, but normal part of our lifestyles. We see it when it comes to commissions from clients. We see it when it comes to doing surveys for gift cards. But the way we see it more often than not is when we are looking for jobs. In this current socioeconomic climate, the recent graduate and/or unemployed has to make a drastic decision. Do you take the time to look for a company or job that fits you better no matter the time invested or do you take a pay cut to rush into a new position as soon as possible?

I battled the idea of writing this article for a few reasons. Some will peruse this article and go about their day learning nothing. And that is okay. The message sent out is not for everyone. Another reason I was shaky about writing about people knowing the worth of their work is that it is hard to admit you've been in so many situations where you have come up short or failed. No one wants to say I have been passed up for 'x' amount of jobs. So I want to shine a little light on people with that mentality. Everyone has failed in one way or another starting off their careers. It almost feels like a hazing ritual by society to realize that every route may not lead to success, a lesson, or a new outlook.

But that realization will make you stronger. And at some point, you will realize just how much you are worth to yourself. Not just in regards to your income, but also your mental and physical wellbeing. So with that in mind, I want to move on to the focus of this article: self-worth.

What is Self-Worth?

Googling "Self-Worth" is probably the quickest way to get your answer. But the dictionary can only do so much without experiencing something to drive home the meaning of it all. What can you get out of "the internal sense of being good enough and worthy of love and belonging from others"? The basis of this article is deeper than just a look at yourself and loving yourself. It pulls in many more points for review. And many people starting on their career journeys can get led astray by the need to pay off loans and standard living expenses. And this is where my own personal experience comes into play.

A little about myself, I am by trade a jack of all trades. I have a degree in web design, interactive media, and also in game development. I have worked in the public and private sectors with one area being the IRS. I have gone to a public university and also a private university as well. And to tie it all in a neat bow, I've gone from working in food service to freelancing to government work to being an entrepreneur. So I've been around at least a bit in my time. Not to say I know everything, but I have an understanding of a lot of different facets of career jumping and a variety of working environments.

But with all of these experiences, I have never had a chance to learn how to stand up for myself with an employer. I was often praised for my work ethic with positive marks on my evaluations everywhere, so getting raises and accolades wasn't a problem. So, I want to highlight I'm not saying that every employer is out to exploit new hires by any means. Let's get that out of the way. To be completely honest, I think most employers are fair in most regards.

"All right, Jax. If all employers aren't out to get me, why do I even need to know this? What's the point of this?"

Oh, that's a can we are cracking open right now.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

The problem comes when you are doing everything right, but can't get that recognition from your employer. When are showing up to work and going above and beyond, but can't get a tangible reward for it. This is the scariest problem for a lot of new hires. To put a specific reward in place, let's focus on the employee getting a bonus. How do you approach your employer without seeming ungrateful for the continued employment? From personal experience, I can say the way that works best for me is to endure and pay attention.

Wait. Wait. Don't jump in the comments, yet. There is a reason there are two parts to this. Let's go break them down and highlight some key points.

Enduring is the most integral part of the battle. It is easy to leave a company in search of one that will value you. And to all the people in that group, I'm envious and also glad that is an option. For others with a small amount of opportunities where you live, this is not possible. And again with the current socioeconomic status of the country, many of us can not have a lapse of pay. So enduring is the only way to continue life as normal. But this is more than just doing the bare minimum. Make sure everyone you see understands your work ethic including co-workers, supervisors, managers, and even clients. They will be indispensable for the next part.

It is difficult to continue working with your same fervor without any incentive. But doing what you had already been with a better attitude towards everyone around you will catch the notice of many. This is not enough though. You'll probably get a bit of lip service about how you deserve a raise, but it could lead to them writing a review about you. Someone may highlight you in a conversation with their friends, family, or employer. Word gets around and if it is about you, you want it to be positive.

Now from this point, start paying attention. Every interaction has a chance to lead to something else. This part is for information gathering and tangible pieces of your work ethic that can't be dismissed. All of your hard work will get noticed. And with your work being noticed by others enough to focus on you, specifically, is invaluable. Check everything and log it. Make sure people know your name. Make sure they know they can review the restaurant. Make sure they know that their word is valuable and that the company wants to hear about it. Because what company doesn't want good publicity?

Engage in Negotiation Kombat

You've endured the continued compliments and goading about getting a raise. You've made sure that you have logged points that highlight your prowess and efficiency from the public and co-workers. What do you do with all of that information?

It's time for you to put it all to good use. Negotiating is not as scary as a lot of people think. Anxiety falls by the wayside when you are not alone. Surrounded by co-workers and clients who support you, you can feel a sense of confidence in your work. You know that you are doing your job and well at that. And with the tangible evidence of others who think so, you can move on to the next step of speaking with the powers that be at your company.

Let me highlight something before continuing. Companies have chains of command, so follow them first. Don't just bypass others because you want a swift change. That may cause more harm than good to your work relationships.

Armed with evidence of your work ethic and the support of others, you are ready to schedule a meeting with your direct superior. When you get your chance to speak or email them, make sure you take your time to highlight specific aspects of your work. Show that you understand the job. Show you are aware of the minimum effort needed and how far you surpass it. Show that you understand the changes needed in your evaluations and how you've grown. Don't be afraid. Have faith in the work you have done and the groundwork you've laid in order to grasp the reward you are due.

That's the angle I have learned on getting recognition and tangible results from a company that doesn't want to reward you for excellence and personification of the company's mission. Focus on yourself and what you bring to the company. Everyone should be rewarded for continued excellence. And you are no exception. If you work harder than your co-workers and want recognition, you have to prove why you deserve it. It is easy to dismiss someone who just says they are the best. It is difficult to ignore public opinion, co-worker support, and tangible results. So never forget your own self-worth. And remember there is a way to engage in negotiations on moderately even ground. Bring your evidence, confidence, and support. And it will be hard for any employer to ignore.